Nexo Alpha System User Manual

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USER MANUAL

VERSION :1.01

DATE : 06/10/10

CONTENT

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INTRODUCTION 4

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE PROCEEDING 5

1. ALPHA SERIES DESCRIPTION 8

1.1. LOUDSPEAKERS 8

1.2. NEXO TDCONTROLLERS 8

1.3. THE X-BOW FLYING SYSTEM 8

2. GENERAL SETUP INSTRUCTIONS 9

2.1. SPEAKER WIRING 9

2.1.1. Connectors 9

2.1.2. Cables 10

2.2. FLYING THE SYSTEM 11

2.2.1. Flown Systems Safety 11

2.2.2. Ground Stacks Safety 12

2.3. TDCONTROLLERS SETTINGS 13

2.3.1. SubTDcontroller + S2 parameter board 13

2.3.2. AlphaTDcontroller 13

2.3.3. AlphaETDcontroller (for use with Alpha E Series) 14

2.3.4. NX241 Digital TDcontroller 14

2.4. INITIAL SET-UP PRECAUTIONS 15

3. ALPHA ARRAYS - SOME BASIC RULES 15

3.1. ALPHA S2 PLACEMENT 15

3.2. SPL VERSUS FREQUENCY 15

3.3. SPL VERSUS DISTANCE 16

3.3.1. Single Cabinet 16

3.3.2. Straight Vertical Array (long throw) 17

3.3.3. Plane Rectangular Array 17

3.3.4. Hygrometry and Temperature - Air Absorption 18

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3.4. DIRECTIVITY - COVERAGE 19

3.4.1. Directivity of Multiple Sources - What Happens ? 19

3.4.2. Small Arrays (less than 4 Alphas M3 / M8) 20

3.4.3. Large Arrays (4 Alphas M3 / M8 and above) 20

4. AMPLIFIERS 21

4.1. RECOMMENDED POWER 21

4.2. CURRENT CAPABILITY 21

4.3. VOLTAGE GAIN 21 II. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 22

4.4. ALPHA S2 22

4.5. ALPHA B1-15 / B1-18 23

4.6. ALPHA M3 / M8 24

4.7. ALPHA EM / EF 25

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4.8. DIRECTIVITY TABLES 26

5. CURVES 27

5.1. ALPHA S2 27

5.2. ALPHA B1-18 27

5.3. ALPHA B1-15 27

5.4. ALPHA M3 28

5.5. ALPHA M8 31

5.6. ALPHA EM 34

5.7. ALPHA EF 34 III. DIMENSIONS 37 IV. TRANSPORT 38 V. CONNECTION DIAGRAMS 39

USER MANUAL

VERSION :1.01

DATE : 06/10/10

Introduction

Thank you for selecting NEXO Alpha Series. This manual is intended to provide you with necessary and useful information about your Alpha System:

• S2

• B1-15, B1-18

• M3, M8

• EM, EF

Please devote some attention to reading this manual. A better understanding of some specific features of the Alpha Series will help you to operate your system to its full potential.

This manual is intended to be comprehensive, and we hope that it will satisfy your requirements. Should you require further information, please contact your NEXO agent.

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USER MANUAL

VERSION :1.01

DATE : 06/10/10

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE PROCEEDING

BASIC PRECAUTIONS

Do not open the speaker system or attempt to disassemble the internal parts or modify them in any way. The speaker system contains no user-serviceable parts. If it should appear to be malfunctioning or damaged, discontinue use immediately and have it inspected by qualified NEXO service personnel.

Water exposure: Do not expose the speaker system to direct rain, do not use it near water or in wet conditions. Do not place containers with liquid on speaker system as they might spill into openings. If any liquid such as water seeps into the speaker system, have it inspected by qualified NEXO personnel.

SYSTEM DEPLOYMENT SAFETY RULES

Read User Manual before deployment. Before use of enclosed speaker system, please ensure that anyone involved in system deployment understands the rigging – stacking – pole mounting safety rules as described in the speaker system User Manual. Failure to do this exposes people to potential injury or death.

Always consult qualified NEXO personnel if the device installation requires construction work and make sure to observe the following precautions:

Mounting precautions

- choose mounting hardware and an installation location that can support the weight of the speaker system;

- do not use speaker system handles for suspended installation;

- do not expose speaker system to excessive dust or vibration, or extreme cold or heat to prevent possibility of component damage;

- do not place the speaker system in an unstable position from which it might fall accidentally;

- if speaker systems uses a stand, ensure that stand specifications are adapted, and that stand height does not exceed 1.40m/55”; never move the stand while the speaker is in position.

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Connection and powering precautions

- remove all connected cables before moving the speaker system;

- turn off AC power of all power amplifier units before connecting the speaker system;

- when turning on the AC power to the audio system, always turn on the power amplifier last; when turning the AC power off, always turn off the power amplifier first;

- when us ed in cold conditions, a gradual power ramp up should applied to the system on an 5 mn period to allow the loudspeaker components to stabilize during the very first minutes of usage.

Inspect the speaker system periodically.

USER MANUAL

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DATE : 06/10/10

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEXO TD CONTROLLERS

NEXO ANALOGUE PSTDCONTROLLERS, NX242 DIGITAL CONTROLLER, NXAMP4x1 AND NXAMP4x4 POWERED CONTROLLERS ARE CLASS 1 APPARATUS AND MUST BE EARTHED.

THE GREEN AND YELLOW WIRE OF THE MAINS CORD MUST ALWAYS BE CONNECTED TO AN INSTALLATION SAFETY EARTH OR GROUND. THE EARTH IS ESSENTIAL FOR PERSONAL SAFETY AS WELL AS THE CORRECT OPERATION OF THE SYSTEM, AND IS INTERNALLY CONNECTED TO ALL EXPOSED METAL SURFACES.

- Read these instructions.

- Keep these instructions.

- Heed all warnings.

- Follow all instructions.

- Do not use this apparatus near water.

- Clean only with dry cloth.

- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

- Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. (US market)

- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

- Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

- Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

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The lightning flash with arrowhead

symbol, within an equilateral triangle

is intended to alert the user to the

presence of uninsulated “dangerous

voltage” within the product's

enclosure that may be of sufficient

magnitude to constitute a risk of

electric shock to persons.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

To avoid electrical shock, do not remove covers.

Dangerous voltages exist inside.

Refer all servicing to qualified personnel only.

USER MANUAL

VERSION :1.01

DATE : 06/10/10

The exclamation point within an

equilateral triangle is intended to

alert the user to the presence of

important operating and

maintenance (servicing) instructions

in the literature accompanying

the appliance.

HIGH SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS

Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise-induced hearing

loss but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to sufficiently intense noise for a sufficient period of time. The U.S. Government’s Occupational and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified the following permissible noise level exposures: Sound Duration Per

Day In Hours Sound Level dBA, Slow Response

8 90 6 92 4 65 3 97 2 100

1 ½ 102

1 105

½ 110

¼ or less 115

According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the above permissible limits could result in some hearing loss. Ear plugs or protectors to the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating this amplification system in order to prevent permanent hearing loss, if exposure is i n excess of the limits as set forth above. To ensure against potentially dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels such as this amplification system be protected by hearing protectors while this unit is i n operation.

DISPOSAL OF OLD ELECTRICAL & EL E CT R ONIC EQUIPMENT

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This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that it shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequence for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

USER MANUAL

VERSION :1.01

DATE : 06/10/10

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1. Alpha Series description

1.1. LOUDSPEAKERS

The Alpha range includes the following speakers :

• The S2 Sub-bass is a double 18-inch resonator loaded sub-bass, dedicated to very low frequency reproduction ( < 80 Hz ) ;

• The B1-15 & B1-18 are complex l oaded (bass-reflex & exponential horn) bass cabinets ; the B1-15 houses one 15-inch driver, while the B1-18 houses one 18-inch driver ; frequency response ranges from 40 Hz up to 200 Hz ;

• The Mid-high M3 & M8 are concentric horn cabinets dedicated to the 200 Hz - 20 kHz frequency range reproduction ; the MF range is handled by two exponential horn loaded 10-inch drivers whose response is optimised by two Nexo designed phase plugs ; the HF range is handled by one constant directivity horn loaded two-inch Neodynium driver.; M3 coverage is 35° (H) x 35°(V), M8 75° (H) x45° (V) ;

• The Mid-high EM forms part of the recently introduced Alpha E Series; its size and power-rating is smaller than that of the Alpha M3 & M8 ; the mid range is handled by an exponential horn loaded 10’’ driver, while the HF range is handled by a constant directivity horn loaded ceramic 2’’ driver. Alpha EM coverage is 75°x30°.

• The compact EF is dedicated to the full audio range reproduction 40 Hz – 20 kHz ; it resembles one EM and one B1-1 8 stacked in a monoblock compact format.

Alpha cabinet fo rm ats are designed for op t i m al a rr a y as sembly (see sect i on VII “Dimensions”) ; al l the cabinets have the same width and depth, height is in multiples of 200 mm.

• Double height (1200 mm ) : Alpha S2, Alpha EF ;

• 4/3 height (800 mm ) : Alpha B1-18 ;

• Single height (600 mm) : Alpha B1-15, Alpha M3, Alpha M8 ;

• 2/3 height (400 mm) : Alpha EM

1.2. NEXO TDCONTROLLERS

The Alpha Series speakers are associated with the following Nexo TDcontrollers :

• SubTDcontroller : Alpha S2 ;

• AlphaTDcontroller : Alpha B1-15, B1-18, M3 & M8 ;

• AlphaETDcontroller : Alpha B1-18, EM & EF ;

• NX241 Digital TDcontroller : all current Nexo speakers.

1.3. THE X-BOW FLYING SYSTEM

The design of the X-BOW flying system has been optimised for the dispersion specifications of the Alpha range, its mechanical characteristics match accurately the acoustical properties of the speakers.

The concept of this flying system enables efficient array assembly, with minimum space between cabinet, thus reducing edge diffraction.

USER MANUAL

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DATE : 06/10/10

The X-BOW flying system includes four main components, references are:

• ALXBOW : main chassis (1) ;

• ALXKIT : hinge (1) and cable links (2) ;

• ALXBRIDLE : D-ring (1) and leg chains (3);

• ALXCASE : flight-case for a complete X-BOW flying kit (capacity :4 X-Bows).

2. General Setup Instructions

2.1. SPEAKER WIRING

2.1.1. CONNECTORS

The loudspeakers are connected via SPEAKON connectors, NL4FC and NL 8FC (not s up plied). A wiring diagram is printed on the connection panel located on the back of each cabinet.

The pins of the SPEAKON plugs are identified in/out and paralleled within the enclosures. Each of these connectors can thus be used independently and simultaneously receive the power amplifier signal feeding the main and the sub-bass systems : a single 8 conductors cable can connect the amplifier rack and the speaker.

NB : Alpha S2 back panel features only one 4-pins SPEAKON connector, in order to prevent paralleling : very few amplifiers could drive such low impedance loads.

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EM EF

M3 M8

CONNECTOR S2 B1-15 / B1-18 M3 / M8 EM / EF

In / Out VLF To VLF (S2) To VLF (S2) To VLF (S2)

SP4

± 2

Not connected In / Out LF (B1) To LF (B1) To LF (B1)

± 1

- To VLF (S2) - -

± 2

- In / Out LF (B1) -

B1/15 B1/18

USER MANUAL

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DATE : 06/10/10

- - In VLF (S2) In / Out VLF (S2)

± 2

- - In / Out LF (B1) In / Out LF (B1)

SP8

P = MF-HF passive / A = MF-HF active

2.1.2. CABLES

Nexo recommends the exclusive use of multi-conduct or cables to connect the system : the cable kit is compatible with all the cabinets, and there is no possible confusion between VLF, LF, MF and HF sections .

Cable choice consists mainly of selecting the correct cable section (size) in relation to the load resistance and the cable length. Too small a cable section will increase its serial resistance, this would induce power-loss and response variations (damping factor).

For a serial resistance less or equal to 4% of the load impedance (damping factor = 25), the maximum cable length is gi v e n by :

= Z x S S in mm2, Z in Ohm, L

max

The table below indicates these values, for 3 common sizes.

Load Impedance (Ω)

Cable section Maximum Length (meters)

1,5 mm² (AWG #14) 3 4.5 6 9 12 18 24 2,5 mm² (AWG #12) 5 7.5 10 15 20 30 40

4 mm² (AWG #10) 8 12 16 24 32 48 64

Important :

- - In / Out MF

- - In / Out HF

± 1

- - In VLF (S2) In VLF (S2)

± 2

- - In / Out LF (B1) In / Out LF (B1)

- - In / Out MF

- - In / Out HF

in meters

max

2 3 4 6 8 12 16

P : In / Out MF+HF A : In / Out MF P : Not connected A : In / Out HF

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• long speaker cables induce capacitive effect that damage the quality of the audio signal (up to hundreds of pF depending on the quality of the cable, with a low-pass effect in high frequencies) ;

• if long speaker cables are to be used, insure that they do not remain coiled while in use. .

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2.2. FLYING THE SYSTEM

Alpha Series loudspeakers are equipped with steel anchor plates that can be fitted with the corresponding Fly Rails. The X-Bow flying system is supplied as an accessory. The X-Bow Flying Manual must be read

before flying the system.

The following points are designed to remind the user of safe practice when flying the X-Bow system. They cannot address every possible circumstance in which the system might be deployed, therefore the user must always apply his or her knowledge and experience. If in doubt, seek advice from your NEXO agent.

2.2.1. FLOWN SYSTEMS SAFETY

• Always inspect all the X-Bow components and cabinet Fly Rails for damage before assembly. Pay

special attention to the lifting points, trombone sockets and safety clips. If you suspect that any of the components are defective, DO NOT USE THE AFFECTED PARTS. Contact your supplier for replacements.

• Read the X-Bow Flying manual carefully. Also, be familiar with the manuals and safe working

procedures f or an y an c i ll ary equipment which will be used with t he X-Bow.

• Ensure that all local and National regulations regarding the safety and operation of flying equipment are

understood and adhered to. Information on these regulations can usually be obtained from Local Government Offices.

• When deploying the X-Bow system always wear protective head wear, footwear and eye protection.

• Do not allow inexp erienced persons to handle X-Bow flying systems. Installation personnel should be

trained in loudspeaker flying techniques and should be fully conversant with this manual.

• Ensure that motor hoists, hoist control systems and ancillary rigging components are currently certified

as safe and that they pass a visual inspection prior to use.

• Ensure that public and personnel are not allowed to pass beneath the syst em during the installation

process. The work area should be isolated from public access.

• Never leave the system unattended during the installation process.

• Do not place any object, no matter how small or light, on top of the system during the installation

procedure. The object may fall when the system is flown and is likely to cause injury.

• Secondary safety steels must be installed once the system has been flown to the operating height.

Secondary steels must be fitted irrespective of the local safety standards applicable to the territory.

• Do not fly the system over areas to which the audience has access.

• Ensure that the system is secure and prevented from pivoting about the motor hoist. Avoid any form of

dynamic loading to the assembly.

• NEVER attach any item to the X-Bow other than the NEXO X-BOW accessories.

• When flying outdoor systems ensure that the system is not exposed to wind or snow loads and is

protected from rainfall.

• The X-BOW requires regular inspection and testing by a competent test centre. NEXO recommend that

the system is load tested and certified annually or more frequently if local regulations require.

• When de-rigging the system ensure that the same duty of care is given to the procedure as for the

installation. Pack X-BOW components carefully to prevent damage in transit.

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• Correct training is fundamental to safe practise when working with loudspeakers flying systems. NEXO recommend that users contact local industry associations for information on specialist course. Information for UK and International training agencies can be obtained by contacting :

The Production Services Association (PSA), School Passage, Kingston-upon-Thames, KT1 SDU Surrey, ENGLAND tel : +44 (0) 181 392 0180

2.2.2. GROUND STACKS SAFETY

Statistically, many more injuries occur due to unstable ground stacked PA systems than those associated with flown systems. There are several reasons for this fact, however the message is clear :

• Always survey the supporting structure upon which a ground stack is to be built. Always look beneath

PA wings to inspect the deck support and if necessary ask for the stage scrims and dressings be removed to allow access.

• X-BOW components can be used to stabilise ground stacks and to ensure that cabinets remain

securely registered to e ach other.

• If the stage surface slopes, as it does in some theatres, ensure that the system is prevented from

sliding forwards due to vi bration. This may require the fitting of timber battens to th e stage floor.

• For outdoor systems ensure that that the system is protected from wind forces which might cause the

ground stack to become unstable. Wind forces can be huge, especially upon large systems, and should never be underestimated. Observe meteorological forecasts, calculate the likely effect upon the system prio r to erection and ensure that the system is secured appropriately.

• Take care when stacking cabinets. Always employ safe lifting proc edures and never attempt to build

stacks withou t su ff i c i e nt pe r s on n e l an d e q ui pment.

• Never allow anyone, whether operators, artists or members of the public to climb onto a ground

stacked PA system. Anyone who must climb over 2m high should be fitted with suitable safely equipment including a clip-on harness. Please refer to local Health and Safety legislation in your territory. Your dealer can help with advice on access to this information.

• Apply the same attention to all safety matters when de-stacking systems.

• Be aware th at safety procedures are as important in the truck and in the warehouse as they are at the

venue.

USER MANUAL

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